144: Navigating PCOS: Insights from a Plant-Based Nutritionist

In this episode, I chat with Rohini Bajekal, a board-certified nutritionist and lifestyle medicine practitioner, about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that affects roughly 1 in 10 women but often goes undiagnosed for years.

Rohini shares her personal journey with PCOS and explains why a holistic approach focusing on plant-based nutrition, lifestyle, and community support is key to managing symptoms. We bust common myths, explore practical strategies for PCOS management, and highlight the importance of compassion for yourself.

Top takeaways from our chat

• PCOS affects 1 in 10 women, and many remain undiagnosed.
• Lifestyle changes are the first line of defense in managing PCOS.
• A holistic approach and community support make a big difference.
• Recognizing symptoms early can lead to quicker diagnosis and better outcomes.
• PCOS is not a life sentence; there is hope, strategies, and support available.

Helpful links

• Buy a copy of Rohini’s book, Living PCOS Free
• Rohini’s website
• Follow Rohini on Instagram
• Long-term consequences of PCOS
• Free factsheet on PCOS from Dr Nitu Bajekal
• Start a free trial to Meal Plan Club
• 141: Be a Plant-Based Woman Warrior: Food, Family, and Living Vibrantly at Every Age with Jane and Ann Esselstyn

About Rohini Bajekal, Nutritionist and Co-Author of Living PCOS Free

Rohini Bajekal (MA Oxon, MSc Nutrition and Food Sciences, Dip IBLM) is a nutritionist and board-certified Lifestyle Medicine professional. Prior to becoming a nutritionist, she studied Theology at Oxford University. Having previously worked in India and Singapore, Rohini is based in London and provides evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle advice to her clients around the world. She is a Nutritionist and Lifestyle Medicine Professional at Menopause Care, the UK's leading provider in online menopause support. Rohini also hosts regular CPD-accredited webinars for Plant-Based Health Professionals UK.

About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder worldwide, affecting at least 1 in 10 women, non-binary and transgender people. It is the number one cause of infertility with symptoms including acne, excess weight gain, irregular periods and hair loss and higher risk of long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes and womb cancer. Alarmingly, 3 in 4 of those with PCOS remain undiagnosed because of the complex nature of the condition.

#PCOS #PolycysticOvarySyndrome #HormonalHealth #WomensHealth #Fertility #PlantBasedWomen #LifestyleMedicine #CleanFoodDirtyGirl

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Clean Food Dirty Girl helps people eat more plants while celebrating imperfection. Subscribe to our podcast for whole-food plant-based eating inspiration and permission to be perfectly imperfect.

*The information shared in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only; it is not a substitute for medical advice or individualised care from a qualified health professional.